Honorable Mentions

Incline Village Exercise Loop

The 1.1-mile-long Incline Village Exercise Loop features a trickling stream as its centerpiece. It is as urban a hike as you’ll find on the North Shore, meandering through woods just off the beach and close to shopping and lodging. Frequented by dog walkers, trail runners, and families, the exercise stations seem an afterthought—except for those looking to firm up as well as mellow out. This is another spot where snow plant thrives once the snow melts.

A network of walking trails follows Lakeshore Drive and winds through the neighborhoods of Incline Village. Mostly paved, these paths connect businesses, schools, and recreation sites throughout the village.

To find the trailhead from the signalized junction of Village Boulevard and NV 28 in Incline Village, follow Village Boulevard toward the lake for 0.6 mile to Lakeshore Boulevard. Go left (east) on Lakeshore Boulevard for 0.1 mile to the Aspen Grove parking lot. The signed trailhead is just inside the parking lot entrance on the left.

Tahoe Rim Trail at Brockway Summit

The Tahoe Rim Trail crosses Brockway Summit, which straddles the high ground between Kings Beach and Truckee. Head south from the summit to Watson Lake; the trail heading north leads to the Martis Peak Lookout and beyond. The trip to Watson Lake is about 6.8 miles one way, making for an über-long day hike or a pleasant overnight trip. The trail to Martis Peak and the Martis Peak Lookout is about 4.5 miles one way, a nice distance for a long day hike.

To reach the trailhead, follow CA 267 west from the traffic light in Kings Beach for about 3 miles. Trailheads are marked on both sides of the highway, with parking available (though this can be tricky on summer weekends).